The Regional 4 (R4) meeting in Cairo has welcomed the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran, terming it a “constructive step towards de-escalation”.

According to a joint statement published by the Foreign Office (FO), the meeting “provided an opportunity for a thorough exchange of views on regional and international developments” and has reaffirmed the importance of continued consultation and coordination among Pakistan, Egypt, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia for stability and regional peace.

“On recent regional developments, the Ministers welcomed in particular the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran on 18 June 2026,” the statement reads.

“They viewed this important development as a constructive step towards de-escalation and towards ending a conflict which posed significant risks to regional security and stability, as well as to energy markets, international maritime routes, global supply chains, and international trade.”

The statement adds that attending ministers commended the efforts of regional and international actors that facilitated the signing of the MoU and emphasised the importance of the faithful implementation of the parties’ commitments.

“The ministers lauded the instrumental efforts of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in reaching this historic outcome, along with the support extended by the State of Qatar to bring about a successful conclusion to the negotiations on the MoU,” the statement adds. :The Ministers also commended the continued and close coordination of Pakistan with them on this important issue.”

Opinion

Editorial

Kashmir unresolved
Updated 30 Sep, 2026

Kashmir unresolved

The just solution lies in India addressing the issue through a trilateral dialogue involving the legitimate representatives of the Kashmiri people and Pakistan.
Water shortage
30 Sep, 2026

Water shortage

THAT the country is entering the Rabi season with an anticipated water shortage of nearly 25pc, the lowest carryover...
Young hearts
30 Sep, 2026

Young hearts

THE observance may have passed, but the message of World Heart Day should not fade with it. The occasion is a useful...
Terror and politics
Updated 29 Sep, 2026

Terror and politics

There is an urgent need to tone down the rhetoric and tackle terrorism as a collective challenge for both the affected provinces and the federation.
Watching the glaciers
29 Sep, 2026

Watching the glaciers

THE latest signs from Pakistan’s mountains are worrying. Suparco says the number of unfrozen glacial lakes it...
Dangerous agenda
29 Sep, 2026

Dangerous agenda

AS the world remains fixated on the US-Iran conflict, elsewhere in the Middle East, Israel is consolidating its grip...